Hazel Davis

Beautifully written with exceptional descriptive detail, all of my senses were alive and it felt like I was there, I felt the despair, heartbreak and to be honest I felt depressed reading it but that sense of hope that keeps us going through life is the same hope that keeps you reading, this was/is sadly life for too many. I’d rather read something real and be engaged with honest emotions than have an unrealistic fairy tale ending. I’m sure for many who’s lives resembled that of any of the characters will find the triggers too much at points, there were a few for me even though I consider I’ve a privileged life in comparison. That being said Douglas Stuart knew when to stop, at the most harrowing points, he could have taken it further and I’m glad he didn’t. I read a few reviews that said the ending was disappointing, I totally disagree, it left me feeling hopeful and with a smile, I’m sure it did for the many who have also given this book a top rating. Well deserving of the Booker Prize.